Things

Before our Parliaments, before the High Courts – there were Things.

Things – from the Old Norse word þing, meaning assembly - were an early system of justice and administration.

When the Vikings and early Norse settlers arrived in a new place they brought with them their customs and legal systems. Things were where political decisions were made, laws upheld and disputes settled. They acted as meeting places and were often the focus for trade and religious activity.

Things are found throughout the Viking world. This website explores the history and legacy of some of these fascinating sites, focusing on the Viking sea roads westwards, from Norway to Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Shetland, Orkney, the Highlands of Scotland and the Isle of Man – countries and areas which are partners in the EU Northern Periphery Programme funded THING Project.